In a dominant performance that showcased both offensive firepower and defensive opportunism, the University of San Diego Toreros (5-3, 3-2 PFL) defeated the Davidson Wildcats (5-4, 3-3 PFL) 40-13 at Torero Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The victory was highlighted by senior wide receiver Ja'seem Reed's team record-tying 14 receptions and yet another defensive touchdown, maintaining USD's perfect home record this season.
Reed finished with 186 yards and two touchdowns, matching a program record for receptions in a single game set by John Matthews in 2008.
"It's a blessing," Reed said after learning of the milestone. "I just try to take it play by play. Even if it's a big play or bad play, I just try to clear my head and keep going."
The Toreros' offense, which hadn't scored 40 points at home since September of last year, was firing on all cylinders. Quarterback Grant Sergent threw for 307 yards and three touchdowns, including a 60-yard strike to an extremely wide open graduate student Bradley Schlom. Senior running back Logan Gingg added 106 yards and a touchdown on the ground.
"Our offense was electric today," head coach Brandon Moore said. "Grant's the type of player that if you give him time, if you give him an opportunity, he's going to dice you up. He took excellent care of the football today and managed the game perfectly."
The game's turning point came in the second quarter when Helix High alum Jerry Riggins scooped up a Davidson fumble and returned it 73 yards for a touchdown, extending USD's lead to 17-7. The defensive score marked San Diego's sixth defensive touchdown of the season, leading all NCAA Division I teams.
"I was playing the quarterback, and I could tell they were trying to hold the mesh," Riggins explained.
"The quarterback really couldn't make a decision, so they panicked, dropped the ball, and I was just there in a good position. I had a caravan with me carrying me to the end zone."
The Torero defense held Davidson, which entered the game leading the FCS in rushing yards, to 228 yards on the ground, well below their season average. "It's tough to lose when you're scoring points on the defensive side of the ball," Moore noted.
The victory was particularly sweet for the Toreros, who avenged last year's loss to Davidson in North Carolina.
"The Carolina loss last year was horrible," Riggins admitted. "Going over there and losing the way we did was just embarrassing. This game was just revenge."
San Diego remains undefeated at home this season at 5-0. "One of the toughest things about the Pioneer Football League is to travel," Moore explained. "When we're home, I think it's indicative of the team that we can be."
Scripps Ranch alum Luke Durkin rushed for 43 yards and a score for the Wildcats.
The Toreros will look to maintain their momentum as they continue their Pioneer Football League schedule on the road against Dayton next week.
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